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Rauðhólar

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Rauðhólar

What Rauðhólar Is

Rauðhólar is a cluster of pseudocraters in the Elliðaárhraun lava field on Reykjavík's southeastern edge. The site features distinctive reddish scoria mounds formed by steam explosions as lava flowed over wetlands. Travellers visit to see these volcanic structures up close and walk through the red gravel terrain without venturing far from the capital.

Getting There

Located directly beside the Ring Road (Route 1), the site is approximately a 15- to 20-minute drive from central Reykjavík. Local buses also serve the area, connecting to walking paths near the site.

Time to Allow

Plan for 45 to 90 minutes. This provides ample time to follow the marked walking paths around the crater cluster.

When to Go

The site can be visited year-round. Summer offers clear trails and easy footing, while winter brings ice and snow that can obscure paths. The area rarely sees heavy crowds, so it remains quiet throughout the day.

Nearby Combinations

Its location makes it easy to combine with nearby points of interest:

  • Elliðavatn (2.2km): A lake bordered by walking trails.
  • Elliðaár (3.9km): A river valley with pedestrian and cycling paths.
  • Árbæjarsafn (4.4km): An open-air historical museum featuring preserved houses.
  • Úlfarsfell (6km): A low mountain with hiking trails overlooking the area.

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Rauðhólar

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Elliðavatn

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